There is high demand for travel between Switzerland and the UK. This is reflected in the large number of flight connections between Swiss airports and London. The Confederation believes that there is also potential for a direct rail connection if the journey time is right. Against this backdrop, Federal Councillor Albert Rösti signed a memorandum of understanding with his British counterpart Heidi Alexander during a visit to London. It expresses both countries’ intention to intensify cooperation in international rail passenger transport.

«A direct rail connection between Switzerland and the United Kingdom is an ambitious goal. With today’s memorandum of understanding, we are establishing the basis to jointly examine concrete next steps. Such a connection would send a strong signal for international public transport and Swiss-UK relations», said Federal Councillor Albert Rösti.

The medium-term goal is to establish a direct rail link between Switzerland and the UK. This will require check-in terminals at departure stations in both countries, since the UK is not a member of the Schengen area, plus an agreement between Switzerland, France and the United Kingdom. As part of the visit, Mr Rösti and Ms Alexander visited the Eurostar terminal at London's St Pancras railway station, which is used for services between the UK and Europe.

Mr Rösti intends to present the Federal Council with a decision on the issue in the course of next year.

Address for enquiries:

Head, DETEC Communication Franziska Ingold +41 58 462 40 67 / +41 79 651 94 35